her eyes meet mine. "jagger got some disturbing news earlier this week. his father has colon cancer. he's there now with him."

"i'm sorry to hear that."

"it's stage four and it's unlikely he'll live much longer."

i push back in my chair. "i'm really sorry. let him know i'm here if he needs someone to talk to and let me know if there is anything i can do."

she leans forward. "i've decided to go to new york city to be with him. jagger's mother, celeste, is already there, but i feel i should go too."

"how does that impact jagger's movie role?"

"he's dropped out. the announcement will be made later today."

"and you? what are your plans?"

"the december issue is ready for press. and i can work on january's from new york. my assistant is back from maternity leave and between her and my intern, who i'd like to hire full-time, i know i can do it."

i rub my hands together. "we could bring in someone temporarily to lessen your workload."

"no! ben, please. this is my magazine. let me try," she pleads, and a few tears prick her eyes.

i stand up and round the desk. "hey. of course. i just wanted to lessen your stress. i know how important sound music is to you. i'll do whatever you think is best."

she glances up at me. "thank you. i really appreciate it."

i lean back against the desk. "when are you planning on leaving?"

"later tonight." she grimaces. "i'm so sorry. i only just decided to go this morning when i got off the phone with him. i'll e-mail you all my information. and i'll be back for xander and ivy's wedding."

my eyes flash to hers. "they set a date?"

she nods. "new year's eve."

"oh, that's quick," is all i can say as my mind wanders back to s'belle.

"are you okay?"

"yes, i'm fine. anything else? i was just headed to the gym."

"no. thanks again, ben."

i nod. "no need to thank me," i say to her as i usher her to the door and head to the locker room. i need to clear my head.